Lagos Fanti Carnival: Lagos Embossing Symbol of Unity Through Tourism, Art & Culture

Lagos State government through the Ministry of Tourism, Art and Culture has once again emboldened the richness of culture and tradition of the state as a symbol of unity in diversity.

This comes following an excitement ambience created at the main bowl of Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos Island where Lagosians thronged the venue to celebrate the culture, music and spirit of Lagos at the 2026 Fanti Carnival.

Cladded in elegant costumes, different communities made processions to the delightful attention of the guests, including the Governor of Lagos State, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, his Wife and other dignitaries, from both local and international.

Ceremonial parades by the communities in attendance, included Lafiaji Fanti Association, Epetedo United Youth Movement, Okepopo Fanti Association, Okoo-Faji Carnival Association, Isale-Eko Woro Carnival Association, Olowogbowo Fanti Association among others.

The Commissioner for Tourism, Art and Culture, Mrs Toke Benson-Awoyinka said that the celebration was designed to embossed the symbol of unity, resilience and artistic expression that is showcasing Lagos unique identity.

Benson-Awoyinka mentioned that the cultural event is a testament to the state's rich Afro-Brazilian Heritage while emphasising the commitment of Lagos State through the Ministry to continuously harnessing cultural tourism as a path to economic growth and social cohesion.

She said "From pulsating drums to dazzling costumes, every detail reflects our cultural richness. We are celebrating community, bridging past and present and embracing our diversity. Immerse yourself inhthr experience, feel th rhythm and connect with others as we celebrate our heritage and showcase Lagos as a beacon of creativity."

This initiative according to a tourist expert, Kazeem Balogun, is a way to protect the cultural linkage and rich Afro-Brazilian Heritage by the Lagos State government and to strengthen the relationship between both cultures.

The atmosphere was charged by popular local musicians who thrilled the participants to some of their old and current tunes.

"The drums, highlife music and scintillating  performances by the communities is a pointer to the richness in our culture and here today, we have people from outside the country coming to see what we have and this shows how valuable our tradition stands in the global community." Balogun said

Bunmi Aribisala is one of the participants, she acknowledged the power of unifying the people through the carnival, stressing that the celebration of culture and tradition is very key to achieve global exchange of ideas about tourism.amd hospitality.

The Lagos Fanti Carnival is one of the oldest cultural traditions on Lagos Island, which is rooted in the legacy of Afro-Brazilian returnees, formerly enslaved Africans who made their way back from Brazil in the late 1800s. 

With support from the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture and the Brazilian Descendants Association, the Fanti Carnival is being revived by a memory of Lagos that is being rooted in culture.

Lagos Upgrades Waterfront Infrastructure To Boost Tourism

Yomi Durojaye

The Honourable Commissioner, Ministry of Waterfront Infrastructure Development, Dayo Bush Alebiosu, has unveiled plans by the State Government to carry out significant waterfront improvements in the State. 

Speaking at a panel session during the Tourism & Hospitality Stakeholders Engagement Summit, themed: “Unlocking the Potentials & Opportunities of Lagos Tourism, Collaboration, and Partnership for a Greater Lagos”, held at the Lagos Continental Hotel on Thursday, the Honourable Commissioner announced major advancements in Lagos State’s waterfront infrastructure and regulatory framework.

The Commissioner revealed that Lagos has successfully transitioned from the use of wooden jetties to modern concrete pontoons, a significant upgrade that aligns with global best practices. This transition, he noted, will enhance safety, expand operational capacity, and further boost water transportation across the State.

Hon. Alebiosu further disclosed that the State Government is developing comprehensive policies to curb illegal and unplanned land reclamations along the coastline. He emphasised that such unauthorised activities pose severe environmental risks and hamper the long-term sustainability of waterfront development.

According to him, Lagos is also working to sanitise the current landscape of illegal reclamations while promoting well-structured and iconic reclamation models such as Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah and Singapore’s Marina Bay, both of which demonstrate how properly executed waterfront projects can stimulate tourism, economic growth, and global visibility.

In addition, the Honourable Commissioner announced that the State Government has commenced plans for the rehabilitation of all existing jetties. This initiative aims to improve safety, enhance user experience, and strengthen the supporting infrastructure required to serve residents, visitors, and the broader tourism and hospitality sector.

In his concluding remarks, Hon. Alebiosu affirmed the State’s broader vision for the sector, stating: “All hands are currently on deck to ensure that Lagos State becomes one of the top 10 tourism destination hubs in the world, and the signs are there for everyone to see that it’s fast becoming a reality.”

Lagos Creative Vault: a Bold Step Toward Revolutionising Nigeria’s Creative Economy – Commissioner

 By Yomi Durojaye 

The Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka has spotlighted the “Lagos Creative Vault” as a groundbreaking initiative poised to redefine the creative economy of Nigeria, describing it as a visionary platform that will serve as a digital archive, talent accelerator, and gateway to global opportunities for creatives in the state.

She stated on Wednesday at the ongoing Ministerial Press Briefing commemorating the sixth year in office of the administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in Alausa, Ikeja. 

Speaking on the State Government’s commitment to empowering the creative sector, the Commissioner stated that the Lagos Creative Vault, curated by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Tourism, Mr. Idris Aregbe has been strategically designed to provide structured access to funding, training, mentorship, and international collaborations.

“The Vault is a game-changer,” the Commissioner said. “It is a dynamic digital hub where filmmakers, animators, musicians, writers, and visual artists from Lagos can showcase their work, gain visibility, and connect with partners and investors both locally and globally. Through this initiative, Lagos is building a future where talent meets opportunity, and creativity drives inclusive economic growth.”

According to her, the Vault embodies the Ministry’s long-term vision to professionalise the creative industry, promote cultural heritage, and attract foreign investment by creating a well-organised system that connects stakeholders across the value chain.

The Commissioner further emphasised that the Vault is not just a repository, but a matchmaking platform enabling creatives to access grants, residencies, and licensing deals for their content-laying the foundation for a sustainable, monetizable creative economy.

In a related development, the Commissioner disclosed that the Ministry through the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board, in the last 12 months, issued over 1,100 film permits to independent movie producers. These permits, she explained, supported documentaries, feature films, commercials, and short films, reflecting a robust and dynamic film environment.

On the international stage, the Commissioner noted that the selection of “My Father’s Shadow” for screening at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival was a proud milestone for Lagos and Nigeria at large.

“This is a global recognition of our storytelling prowess and cultural strength. It affirms that Nigerian content is not only locally relevant but also globally compelling,” she remarked.

The Commissioner also commended the recent endorsement of Funke Akindele’s film “Everybody Loves Jenifa” by the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board, describing it as a step toward institutional support for high-quality, homegrown narratives.

The Commissioner reaffirmed the government’s unwavering dedication to youth empowerment, citing the Skill-Up Lagos initiative where 50 youths were trained in indigenous raffia basket weaving, and the Guinness World Record attempt by Fola David for the world’s longest drawing as inspiring testaments to Lagos’s creativity and resilience.

“Lagos is not just a city of dreams; it is a city where creativity is nurtured, talent is empowered, and the arts are given the space to flourish,” Benson-Awoyinka said.

2024 Lagos Boat Regatta: Lagos Will Explore More Tourism Opportunities On Waterways, Says Sanwo-Olu

Yomi Durojaye 

 

Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Saturday said his government will continue to explore waterways to develop a strong ecosystem for tourism and further expand the transportation system in the State.

Gov. Sanwo-Olu, L: Deputy Gov. Dr. Hazmat, R: Commissioner for Tourism, Hon. Mrs. Toke-Benson 

He said his administration is committed to unlocking tourism potential to further grow the economy of the State.

Governor Sanwo-Olu spoke on Saturday during the 2024 Lagos Boat Regatta with the theme "Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life," held at Victoria Island and across various locations in the five divisions of the State—Ikorodu, Badagry, Ikeja, Lagos Island, and Epe. 

He said the Lagos Boat Regatta is a demonstration of what Lagos stands for and a transformation and revival of culture, noting that the idea is a shared vision for showcasing the beauty of Lagos State water tourism potential for the enjoyment of residents.

Governor Sanwo-Olu, who embarked on a boat ride with his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, and some State Executive Council members, urged Lagosians to take advantage of the opportunity to unwind and be entertained as they enjoy the ambience of the Boat Regatta, sight and sound of the state.

He said: "We are indeed excited that we can finally have a boat regatta, the beginning of what will be a lot of activities that are going to happen during this yuletide season. It is a demonstration of our commitment to developing tourism potential in Lagos.

"You know one third of Lagos is surrounded by water. So, we need to be able to use our waterways not only as a means of transportation but as a strong ecosystem for tourism, and today you will be seeing displays of various sizes of water infrastructure and displays of boat regattas from the five divisions of Lagos.

"It is going to be a day and afternoon of sheer tourism, fun, and understanding the beauty of the waterways of Lagos looks like. Let us relax, sit back, and enjoy the beauty of the serenity and tourism potential of the state and the hospitality of Lagos."

Speaking earlier, the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Mrs. Toke Benson-Awoyinka, said the Lagos Boat Regatta 2024 was aimed to immerse participants in the rich culture of the state's waterway.

Benson-Awoyinka said the event serves as a driver of economic growth to boost tourism and create opportunities for local businesses, and it further cements Lagos’ reputation as a premier global destination.

The Commissioner said the event highlighted the vibrant community heritage and sustainability practices through an engaging as well as multi-sensory experience weaving together parades, dance performances, and innovative space layouts with captivating images.

She said: "This year's theme, 'Our Water, Our Heritage, Our Life,' underscores the integral role our waterways play in shaping our history and identity as Lagosians. The Regatta is not only a showcase of our vibrant traditions but also a testament to our shared commitment to fostering tourism, cultural pride, and unity. 

"Through the dazzling display of decorated boats, exhilarating traditional races, and captivating water sports, we celebrate the boundless creativity and dynamism of our people. Beyond its cultural significance, this event serves as a driver of economic growth by boosting tourism and creating opportunities for local businesses. It further cements Lagos’ reputation as a premier global destination.

"I wish to commend the visionary leadership of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, whose unwavering dedication to the development of our waterways and tourism infrastructure has made events like this possible. His administration's efforts in promoting sustainability and environmental conservation are truly commendable and align perfectly with the essence of this occasion."